Tough economic times didn't deter Harmons and its customers in raising a record-breaking amount of money for Special Olympics Utah. Bob and Randy Harmon presented a check for $182,882 to the local charity on Tuesday, April 14 at the Salt Lake Marriott. Harmons invited customers and friends during March to "Be a Fan" of Special Olympics and donate in three ways - to buy Special Olympics Utah icons at check stands, root beer floats from SOU athletes every weekend, and frozen food. Harmons donated a portion of the sales of frozen food for March to the charity. 

Harmons' 14 years of fund raising have taken donations for Special Olympics Utah over the one-million dollar mark. The locally-owned grocery chain is the top sponsor for the charity which presents athletic events and educational programs for people with intellectual disabilities in Utah. 

"We are always amazed and humbled by the generosity of the community in supporting good causes," said Bob Harmon, vice president for-the-customer at Harmons. "It is so gratifying to get this kind of support for Special Olympics Utah, when we know there are many people who are struggling financially. 

"We also have to say a special thank you to our frozen food vendors who have given us great wholesale pricing so we can in turn donate a portion of the sale of their products to Special Olympics," added Harmon. 

Glen Lanham, Special Olympics Utah CEO said, "We are speechless with gratitude to Harmons and its customers for this donation. Even in this economy they have shown their support and commitment. We give our sincere heartfelt thanks." 

Special Olympics Utah, celebrating its 40^th year in Utah, provides year-round sports training and competition in 20 Olympic-type sports for more than 2,200 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Special Olympics provides athletes with opportunities to develop fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy as they participate in the sharing of gifts, and friendship with their families and communities. To learn more, visit Special Olympics Utah online at www.sout.org.